The Middle East Association is leading a multi-sector trade mission to Bahrain from 3-6 May 2010. The mission is timed to coincide with the Green Building Forum to which all delegates will receive complimentary invitations.

Delegates will also benefit from an Embassy briefing, a meeting with the Bahrain Economic Development Board and a visit to the Chamber of Commerce to meet members. There will also be an optional visit to the Khalifa Bin Salman Port and meetings with the General Organisation of Ports.

Bahrain has a small and prosperous economy with less dependence on oil than most other Gulf States. Trade between the UK and Bahrain is strong, with UK exports of goods increasing from £217 million in 2007 to £278 million in 2008. Strategically located in the Gulf with a 25km causeway connecting it to Saudi Arabia and the rest of the GCC, Bahrain is a key gateway to the GCC, a market of over 100 million people. A 40km causeway to Qatar is scheduled for completion by 2013.

Bahrain's diversity and openness present plenty of opportunities for exporters. A recognised global centre for Islamic Finance and Insurance in particular, the financial services sector contributes approximately 25% of GDP. Manufacturing and the oil & gas industry each contribute around 15% of GDP. Bahrain’s economic policy embraces a programme of privatisation, which includes communications, transport, electricity and water, the ports and airport services.

The mission will be led by Ahmed Suleiman MBE KFO, who was seconded to UKTI as Trade and Investment Advisor for UK bilateral trade with Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia Yemen and Libya.